WHY SNAKES MAKE GOOD PETS

INTRODUCTION

Snakes are reptiles. They are cold-blooded animals with the amazing ability of raising
and lowering their body temperatures to adapt to the environment. They are distinctively
known for their long elongated body and scaly skin.

Throughout the globe, there are over 3,000 snake species. They can be found almost
everywhere. They can survive in streams, oceans, deserts and forests. As a matter of fact,
every continent has at least one type of snake. Since snakes do not fair well with cold
climates all year round, they are not found in Antarctica. Islands like Ireland and New
Zealand don’t have snakes too. (Facts about Snakes, n.d.)

BODY

I. Snakes have a bad rap for being a pest, but they can be great pets.

Contrary to common belief, they are not slimy and cold. Most of them aren’t even
venomous. In fact, there are many positive benefits having them as household pets – as
long you are willingly prepared to meet their needs.

A. Compared to usual pets like cats and dogs, snakes have low feeding
maintenance.

Snakes have a unique digestive system compared to other animals. They can survive
for days without food and still grow longer because they can control their energy
consumption.

According to a recent study by University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. (2007, August

27), snakes have the ability to lower their energy reduction by up to 70%. During the
initial starvation stages, they will use specific fat stores to survive.

Feeding can be done every one to two weeks. Less if your snake pet is hibernating.
Keep in mind that feeding frequency is dependent on the snake’s size and specie. You

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should also consider the hibernating climate.

Feeding snakes can be cheaper too as long you have contact with breeders
specializing in feeder mice. This will also guarantee that your snake will eat healthy and
get all the nutrition that they need.

B. Another benefit of having a pet snake is they require less tank cleaning.

Once your snake has digested its meal, it will pass in one swoop. It is easily removed
without the need to clean the whole tank. It is, however, recommended to clean the tank
at least once in six months. Remember, just like any other pets, they should have proper
living environment in order to thrive.

C. Unlike Fido, snakes’ entertainment maintenance is relatively low.

You don’t need to buy toys so that they could stop gnawing your furniture. However,
it doesn’t mean you should neglect them. You can show your affection just by cuddling
with them.

D. Snakes aren’t noisy.

They won’t bark in the morning or loudly yawl for weeks because they are in heat.
They won’t even mimic naughty phrases or sing loud songs. They will just silently curl
beside you.

E. Snakes are easily taken to the vets for a yearly check-up.

As a matter of fact, you don’t have to drag them into your car. As long as your scaled
friend is healthy, you don’t have to take them for vaccinations. Although they don’t
require regular check-up, it is necessary to check if your local vet can accommodate your
exotic pet during emergencies.

F. If you are allergic to fur, snakes are perfect.

They don’t have any hair to trigger an asthma attack. This means no more sneezing
and weezing when you are cuddling them or when you enter inside your house. You

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don’t even have to worry about dander and fleas.

CONCLUSION

Snakes are beautiful animals. Having them as household pets is a very rewarding and
unique experience. However, they are not obviously for everyone. They should be only
taken care of by individuals who are committed to provide their unique needs.